Madhubani: Madhubani DM Anand Sharma on Thursday reviewed flood preparedness and disaster response mechanisms ahead of the monsoon season.The DM said, “Providing timely and swift relief to flood-affected people is our highest priority.” He added that disaster victims had the first claim on govt resources and warned officials that negligence or delay in preparedness would invite strict accountability.He asked all departments to update flood-related data, including Grievance Redressal (GR) lists, to ensure relief distribution could begin immediately if floods strike.ADM (disaster management) was instructed to assess the requirement of private boats and complete agreements in advance. Damaged govt boats are to be repaired without delay.Anand also ordered a review of all permanent and temporary flood shelters, directing officials to ensure drinking water, toilets and other basic facilities at the centres.The health department was asked to maintain adequate stocks of life-saving medicines, anti-snake venom, halogen tablets, bleaching powder and other essential supplies.The public health engineering department was instructed to repair hand pumps and prepare for installation of new ones in vulnerable areas. Sub-divisional officers will monitor the work regularly.Officials were also directed to inspect embankments continuously and report weaknesses for immediate repair. Instructions were issued on rainfall monitoring, road repairs, drain cleaning and identification of vulnerable groups.SP Yogendra Kumar and other senior officials attended the meeting, while several officers joined virtually.
